I tend to be too obsessed with canines, & it's pretty mundane, but I'd be a dog. I know they live realtively short lives (by human standards) but, in a good home, at least, they lead fruitful lives. The connection between dogs & their owners is almost symbiotic. Their noses are 500 times more sensitive than the nose of a human (which is great until your human farts, I guess ). When I take my dog out for a walk, I always let him stop & sniff as much as he sees fit. It's his tour of the world, not mine.

I don't know how to do it, but I'd love to post a picture of my BIg Papi. He's a 6 pound Chihuahua mix who thinks it's OK to charge pitbulls & other big dogs. He's a real "tough guy." Our last two dogs were German shepherds, so having a lapdog is a big change for us.

While I'm obsessing, what is your favorite breed of dog (or would a pound puppy be OK)? What is it about this dog that appeals to you? In your mind, what are the pros & cons of dog ownership?